An approach to the optimization of thin-walled cantilever open section beams

Abstract

An approach to the optimization of the thin-walled cantilever open section beams subjected to the bending and to the constrained torsion is considered. The problem is reduced to the determination of minimum mass, i.e. minimum cross-sectional area of structural thin-walled I-beam and channel-section beam elements for given loads, material and geometrical characteristics. The area of the cross-section is assumed to be the objective function. The stress constraints are introduced. Applying the Lagrange multiplier method the equations, whose solutions represent the optimal values of the ratios of the parts of the chosen cross-section, are formed. The obtained results are used for numerical calculation.

Keywords

• optimization
• thin-walled beams
• optimal dimensions
• objective function
• stress constraints